Category: Kapa3

Kapa3 at the Scientific Meeting “Cancer in 2026: Challenges and Disruptions” – Focusing on Supportive Care and Its Limits

At the scientific meeting “Cancer in 2026: Challenges and Disruptions”, held on March 13–14, 2026 at the Divani Caravel, Kapa3 actively contributed to discussions on supportive care for oncology patients, a critical area for improving quality of life and holistic patient support.

The meeting was organized by the Hellenic Oncology Patient Support Institute, under the chairmanship of Christos Panopoulos, and was held under the auspices of the Hellenic Cancer Society and the Hellenic Society of Medical Oncologists. It has become a recognized annual event for the oncology community, highlighting each year the latest challenges and rapid developments in the field.

Progress in oncology is continuous and impressive, with scientific advances steadily enhancing the possibilities for personalized treatment, while simultaneously improving patients’ quality of life and turning some forms of cancer into manageable chronic conditions.

During the two-day meeting, key developments were presented in critical areas such as precision medicine, immunotherapy, and novel therapeutic strategies, with particular emphasis on the role of artificial intelligence and molecular analysis in modern clinical practice.

Kapa3 participated in the roundtable on supportive care for oncology patients, held on Friday, March 13, represented by Ms. Evangeli Bista. She noted that attending the conference gave her the opportunity to engage with people leading initiatives in patient support and advocacy. The roundtable addressed critical topics such as the role of healthcare professionals, pain management in Greece, and the adequacy of existing care structures.

In the discussion on psychosocial support, Ms. Bista, representing Kapa3 and drawing from her daily experience with oncology patients, emphasized that addressing the challenges arising from the patient journey is particularly demanding, as the high volume of cases and the fragmentation of the healthcare and social support system create exponentially more issues to manage.

When asked whether voluntary work alone is sufficient to meet the growing needs of patients, her response was clear:

…voluntary action is a valuable and essential pillar of social support. The improvement of patients’ quality of life relies heavily on voluntary efforts that take place across the country under challenging conditions. However, it is not sufficient on its own to meet the complex and increasing needs of patients.

As highlighted during the discussion, voluntary contributions are crucial for filling gaps in the system and strengthening social protection. At the same time, a more comprehensive and institutionally supported approach is necessary. This includes:

• adequate and stable funding
• continuous training and empowerment of all stakeholders
• clear and functional legal frameworks
• a shift in mindset among healthcare professionals, patients, and administrators
• and the development of integrated policies in the field of supportive care

Kapa3’s intervention underscored the importance of psychosocial support as an integral part of oncology supportive care, promoting a more holistic, humane, and sustainable approach to patient management. As Ms. Bista noted, participating in the two-day meeting serves as a reminder that the fight to support patients requires all of us on the same side.

Update on Constant Attendance Allowance – March 2026

Based on the latest available data for March 2026, the Constant Attendance Allowance, provided through e-EFKA, has been increased and now reaches up to €845–846 per month, depending on the category and insurance status. This allowance applies to pensioners with severe disabilities or serious mobility impairments who require continuous assistance and supervision from another person, following disability certification by the KEPAs.

The year 2026 features increases and retroactive payments in EFKA allowances, including disability benefits, aiming to strengthen support for vulnerable pensioners and reduce financial difficulties in daily life. This adjustment reflects the ongoing commitment to support pensioners with increased care needs.

Eligible Pensioners

  • Pensioners with a disability rate above 67%, for whom continuous care by another person is certified.

  • Blind elderly pensioners.

  • Survivors’ pensioners, provided the deceased had their first insurance before 1/1/1993.

Amounts and Supplements

  • For those insured before 1/1/1993, the supplement reaches 50% of the pension, up to €671.40.

  • For those insured from 1/1/1993 onwards, the amount is €173.34.

  • Employees may also receive an extra-institutional allowance, with a total maximum of €846.

  • At a social assistance level, the amount can reach up to €380 per month.

For public sector pensioners, the corresponding supplement is calculated at 2.5% to 4.5% of the basic lieutenant salary, depending on the degree of incapacity, and in cases of 80% or higher incapacity, the amount increases by 50%. The allowance is tax-free and protected from garnishment.

Important Note: The official decision on the adjustment is expected to be published in the Government Gazette in the coming days. Once available, the article will be updated with full details and the official Gazette reference.

This increase on the Constant Attendance Allowance, forms part of the broader adjustment of social welfare allowances for 2026, confirming the commitment to support pensioners with higher self-care needs and ensure a dignified standard of living.

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

New Collaboration between Cancer Guidance Center – Kapa3 and the Hellenic Federation of Persons with Multiple Sclerosis (HFoPwMS)

Cancer Guidance Center – Kapa3 announces its new collaboration with the Hellenic Federation of Persons with Multiple Sclerosis (HFoPwMS), strengthening synergies between organizations active in the field of health and patient support.

This collaboration aims to develop joint initiatives that will contribute to raising awareness, promoting public information, and providing meaningful support to people living with chronic conditions, with particular focus on cancer patients and persons living with Multiple Sclerosis. Through the exchange of knowledge, experience and good practices, the two organizations seek to strengthen actions that promote equal access to information, healthcare services and social inclusion for patients.

Cancer Guidance Center – Kapa3 is dedicated to supporting people living with cancer and their caregivers by providing reliable information, practical guidance and access to benefits and services. At the same time, the organization develops initiatives that enhance patients’ awareness of their rights and promote their psychosocial empowerment. Through initiatives such as Mobile Units, digital tools and educational programmes, Kapa3 promotes a patient-centred approach to cancer care, encouraging patients to actively participate in decisions concerning their health and quality of life, while fostering collaborations with organizations working in the fields of health and social support.

The Hellenic Federation of Persons with Multiple Sclerosis (HFoPwMS) is a secondary non-profit organization founded in 2008 with the aim of uniting and supporting primary associations of persons with Multiple Sclerosis across Greece, while also raising awareness about the disease among the wider public. The Federation currently brings together nine primary patient associations from across the country. HFoPwMS implements awareness and advocacy initiatives related to Multiple Sclerosis and works to ensure the equal participation of people with MS in the educational, professional, athletic and cultural life of the country. It is a member of the National Confederation of Disabled People (ESAmeA) and the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP).

Within the framework of this collaboration, the two organizations plan to develop joint initiatives such as the organization of conferences, workshops and awareness events, the implementation of information and public awareness campaigns, participation in national and European programmes, as well as the development of joint research initiatives on issues related to patients’ quality of life. The partnership will also contribute to strengthening interdisciplinary cooperation and knowledge exchange among organizations active in the health sector.

This new collaboration reflects the shared vision of the two organizations to strengthen the voice of patients and promote a society that respects, supports and empowers people living with chronic conditions.

March – Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month

March – Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month

March is internationally recognized as Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month, a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells – immune system cells responsible for producing antibodies and defending the body against infections.

This period provides an important opportunity to raise public awareness, highlight the challenges faced by patients, and enhance understanding of the disease, early diagnosis, and the importance of access to modern treatments.

What is Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma develops in the bone marrow, when plasma cells grow uncontrollably and produce abnormal proteins. The presence of these cells can affect the production of healthy blood cells, cause bone damage, and impair the function of vital organs such as the kidneys. Although relatively rare, it is the second most common blood cancer worldwide.

The disease’s symptoms may be initially nonspecific and develop gradually. Fatigue, bone pain – especially in the spine or ribs – frequent infections, anemia, or kidney problems are some of the signs that may prompt further investigation. Early awareness and timely medical evaluation are therefore crucial for diagnosis and disease management.

Multiple Myeloma by the Numbers

Globally, the disease affects a significant number of people. According to international epidemiological data:

  • 188,000 new cases were reported worldwide in 2022

  • Approximately 121,000 people died from the disease the same year

  • It is estimated that more than 540,000 people are currently living with multiple myeloma worldwide

The disease occurs more often in older adults. Most diagnoses occur in people over 60–65 years old, and around 80% of cases are reported in individuals over 65. Experts predict that the disease’s incidence may rise in the coming decades, largely due to the aging population in many countries.

The Situation in Greece

In Greece, the exact epidemiological picture of multiple myeloma is not fully clear, as there is no comprehensive national cancer registry recording all cases systematically.

However, according to available international estimates for 2022:

  • About 763 new multiple myeloma cases were reported in the country

  • Approximately 579 deaths were attributed to the disease

  • It is estimated that around 2,154 people in Greece are living with the disease over a five-year period

These figures highlight the importance of improving health data collection and continuously supporting patients living with the disease.

Advances in Treatments

In recent years, scientific progress has significantly changed the course of the disease.

Modern therapies include:

  • Immunotherapies

  • Monoclonal antibodies

  • Proteasome inhibitors

  • Immunomodulatory drugs

  • CAR‑T cell therapies (for advanced stages of the disease)

New therapeutic combinations and ongoing clinical studies are providing more treatment options, reinforcing hope for even more effective therapies in the future.

The Importance of Awareness and Support

Despite these advancements, public awareness and support for people living with the disease remain crucial. Early diagnosis, access to specialized medical care, and equitable access to modern therapies are key factors in improving disease outcomes and patients’ quality of life.

Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month serves as a reminder that knowledge, research, and collective effort can make a difference. Through education, support for scientific research, and assistance to patients and their families, we can help create an environment where no one faces cancer alone.

Sources:

https://gco.iarc.fr
(Global Cancer Observatory – International Agency for Research on Cancer)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39658225/
(Global burden and projections of multiple myeloma)

https://www.oecd.org/health/cancer-profiles/greece.html
(EU Country Cancer Profile – Greece)

https://ehoonline.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40164-025-00684-x
(Global epidemiology of multiple myeloma)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3627436/
(Multiple myeloma epidemiology study)

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

Kapa3 Participation in the 3rd “Mapping the Unknown in Oncology” Conference

Kapa3 actively participated in the conference “Mapping the Unknown in Oncology – From Hospitals to Homes, mapping the future of oncology care”, organized for its third year by the Medical Society for Research and Education under the auspices of HeSMO (Hellenic Society of Medical Oncologists) and the Hellenic Cancer Society, held on February 27–28, 2026 at the Golden Age Hotel in Athens.

During the events on Saturday, February 28, Ms. Evangelí Bista, Head of Operations and Development at the Kapa3 Cancer Patient Guidance Center, took part in the panel titled “e-Health Tools and Educational Platforms: New Paths for Doctors and Patients.” The panel was moderated by Ms. Z. Saridaki and included panelists G. Koukourakis, S. Peroukidis, F. Tyligadas, and Ch. Christodoulou.

In her presentation, titled “Digital Patient Education: The Patient as an Active Partner,” Ms. Bista highlighted the importance of digital transformation in healthcare, which shifts care from episodic to continuous support, moving healthcare from hospitals into patients’ daily lives and empowering patients to become active participants in managing their health.

In this context, Kapa3 announced that for 2026 it will be the only civil society organization fully integrating AI, cybersecurity, and high-performance computing into its processes and services, implementing:

  • An AI-powered digital assistant (chatbot) for immediate patient guidance and support

  • A voice-command system for website accessibility and text-to-speech conversion

  • Service redesign, simplifying processes and reducing bureaucracy

  • An AI-based recommendation system with usage data analysis to personalize services

Special emphasis was placed on patient navigation, as oncology patients need guidance: where to go, what they are entitled to, when to be concerned, and when to wait. Kapa3 addresses this gap, providing not just information but meaningful, personalized guidance within the healthcare system.

The goal is not to add another service but to unite existing services. The next evolution of this model is Myrto, the digital assistant that serves as a reference point, translating knowledge into daily action.

Because the future of oncology is not only personalized treatment but also personalized understanding.

Kapa3’s participation underscores the organization’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and ethics, demonstrating how technology can significantly enhance the experience and care of oncology patients.

 

 

Kapa3 at Athens Digital Health Week 2026 – The Role of Patient Digital Navigators in Healthcare Digital Transformation

As part of Athens Digital Health Week 2026, Kapa3, as a new member of the Hellenic Digital Health Cluster (HDHC), participated in the closed members and partners meeting as well as the panel discussion titled “Synergies to Bridge the Needs of Healthcare Services in Digital Transformation,” presenting the role of patient digital navigators and exploring how digital technologies can strengthen a patient-centered healthcare system.

The discussion focused on a key question: how can available digital solutions effectively address the real needs of the healthcare and social care system?

Special emphasis was placed on the importance of interoperability, evidence-based decision-making, transparency, and comparability, as well as connecting research and governance, promoting equality, and considering the impact of artificial intelligence in the modern healthcare ecosystem.

Kapa3 was represented by Evangeli Bista, who highlighted the critical role of patient organizations in successfully integrating digital technologies into the care journey.

As she noted:

“Digital health is not only about developing technological solutions, but about their meaningful integration into the patient’s care journey. Civil society organizations (patients, caregivers, friends, professionals) can play a crucial role as adoption partners, contributing to design, implementation, and evaluation. Through collaboration within the Cluster, an ecosystem is strengthened where innovation translates into real accessibility and continuity of care with maximum social impact. For the Cancer Patients Guidance Center – Kapa3, developing its role as patient digital navigators can only happen through such synergies.”

The panel also included representatives from Affidea Greece, Gnomon Informatics SA, and REA Maternity & Gynecology Clinic, who contributed their expertise to a productive dialogue on aligning technology, clinical practice, and data governance.

During the closed meeting, the need to strengthen joint research initiatives, interoperability, and systematic collaboration among ecosystem members was emphasized, ensuring that innovation translates into measurable value for both patients and the healthcare system.

For Kapa3, developing its role in the digital health ecosystem as patient digital navigators is a strategic priority. Through such collaborations, patient organizations are empowered to actively contribute to a more transparent, equitable, and truly patient-centered healthcare system, where technology serves as a tool for empowerment rather than an end in itself.

Download our Press Release in pdf or word

Kapa3 Collaboration with the Municipality of Meteora to Establish a Cancer Patient Support Office

Kapa3 launches collaboration with the Municipality of Meteora to establish a support office for cancer patients and their families, strengthening local social services and providing practical assistance to patients and families affected by cancer.

The initiative for this establishment was taken by the Municipality of Meteora and approved by the Municipal Council, aiming to improve access to services and information for patients. The office will operate within the Kalampaka Community Center and will be staffed by a social worker and a psychologist, in collaboration with the “Help at Home” program.

The Cancer Guidance Center – Kapa3 will provide scientific guidance and prepare the tools and methodologies for the office’s operation, including collecting social histories, recording requests, and guiding patients and their families.

This office, as a support office for cancer patients, will offer free services such as:

  • Guidance on rights and benefits (KEPA, social tariffs, work schedule adjustments, allowances).

  • Patient file management to reduce bureaucratic burden.

  • Social and psychosocial support for patients and families.

  • Collaboration with local social and health services.

In addition, the support office will act as an information hub for the local community, providing interested individuals with information on prevention, awareness programs, and solidarity initiatives. In this way, it enhances not only the direct support for patients but also the wider community’s awareness and engagement with the needs of their fellow citizens.

In a statement, Mayor Lefteris Avramopoulos emphasizes:

“The establishment of the Patient Service Office for Neoplastic Diseases is a policy choice focused on people. The Municipality of Meteora takes responsibility to stand truly beside our fellow citizens, ensuring support, dignity, and effective access to their rights.”

The goal of the collaboration is to ensure timely and equitable access for cancer patients and their caregivers to reliable information and supportive services, reducing the stress and psychosocial burden often accompanying the disease.

Kapa3, with experience in patient guidance across Greece and an already functioning similar structure in the Municipality of Megara, continues to expand its network of collaborations with local authorities, strengthening the connection between social services and patients.

The collaboration with the Municipality of Meteora represents another step toward creating a stable framework for supporting cancer patients at a regional level, focusing on people and their real needs.

Download our press release in pdf or word

Launch of Free MELODIC Training Programme – Greece

We are pleased to announce the launch of the free eight-week online training programme implemented in Greece within the framework of the European project MELODIC, in which Kapa3 participates as one of 13 partner organisations from 6 European countries.

The programme is addressed to doctors, nurses, other health professionals, and social care professionals working in oncology.

MELODIC is an international collaboration aimed at strengthening mental health support for young adults with cancer and their families, promoting high-quality, holistic oncology care.

Through the programme, participants will have the opportunity to develop skills in:

  • Assessing mental health needs using validated and evidence-based tools

  • Supporting families and caregivers

  • Delivering high-quality psychosocial care

  • Interprofessional collaboration

  • Sustaining personal and professional wellbeing

The programme is divided into an asynchronous part (on the Moodle platform), which participants can complete at their own pace, and four contact lessons, constituting the synchronous part via Zoom. Upon completion, participants will receive 5 ECTS credits and a certificate of completion.

Sessions will take place from March to April 2026.

The contribution of health professionals is crucial for the accurate assessment of mental health needs of young adults with cancer and their families, as well as for delivering high-quality, person-centred care. The MELODIC programme strengthens their skills, promoting collaboration, responsibility, and sustainable professional practice in oncology.

For further information, please contact:
Ifiyenia Anastasiou
email: ifi.k3team@gmail.com | phone: 690.62.65.170

Continuing the Journey: Online Group Sessions for Mental Health and Nutrition – Third Cycle with Kapa3 and the LB.H.Sc

Following the warm response to the second cycle of meetings (see the related article here ), focusing on Nutritional Guidance and Experiential Psychological Support, Kapa3 and the Laboratory of Basic Health Sciences (LB.H.Sc), Department of Nursing University of Peloponnese are delighted to continue their collaboration with a third series of online group sessions for mental health and nutrition, dedicated to the holistic care of body and mind, designed for people living with cancer and their caregivers.

In this third cycle, mental health and nutrition are approached as two complementary sides of the same care.

The mental health sessions help participants recognize and manage challenging emotions such as anxiety, fear, sadness, or guilt, strengthen resilience, and cultivate a deeper connection with themselves and others.

The nutrition sessions explore how mindful and balanced eating can support the body, improve energy and mood, and become a meaningful act of self-care. Food is not only a necessity but also a way to nurture the body, mind, and spirit.

Program of Online Sessions for Mental Health and Nutrition & Themes

  • Saturday, February 28, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    Myths and truths about “anti-cancer” diets. How to evaluate nutritional information and avoid risky practices.

  • Saturday, March 14, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    Stress and uncertainty: practical ways to manage them during treatments and exams.

  • Saturday, March 21, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    Giving space to emotions without being overwhelmed: recognizing and expressing fear, anger, sadness, and guilt.

  • Saturday, March 28, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    Nutritional support during treatment & the role of cachexia.

  • Saturday, April 25, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    Boundaries without guilt: protecting energy and mental resilience.

  • Saturday, May 9, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    Safe cooking practices & kitchen hygiene.

  • Saturday, May 23, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    Family and illness: changes in relationships and ways to support each other.

  • Saturday, June 6, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    The Tree of Life: who I am beyond the illness.

  • Saturday, June 13, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    What gives meaning to life now: discovering small but meaningful elements that sustain us.

Format & Participation

The meetings are held online, based on dialogue, experiential learning, and the sharing of personal experiences. Everyone participates at their own pace, in a warm environment of acceptance and trust. Consistent attendance helps build safety and confidence within the group.

To express your interest or join the first session of the third cycle (Saturday, February 28, 17:30–19:00): [Registration Link]

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

Results from the First Phase of the Knowledge Mapping of Members of the Civil Society Alliance, Greece

The first phase of the survey on the current state of knowledge and use of technological tools by members of the Civil Society Alliance, Greece, was successfully completed. Its aim was to identify the strengths, challenges, and needs of the organizations, in order to support their further development and process improvement.

The contribution of the Cancer Guidance Centre – KAPA3, particularly through the collection and analysis of data by Mr. Konstantinos Tzanas, Statistical Analyst, MSc, was significant. This involvement ensured the quality, completeness, and reliability of the results, providing a comprehensive picture of the current situation.

Key Findings

  • Organizations that invest in digital maturity demonstrate better financial management and overall organizational performance.

  • 2024 inputs/budgets are the most decisive factor for organizational maturity. Medium-sized organizations (€250,000 – €600,000) show the best balance of resources and effectiveness.

  • Significant gaps exist in financial sustainability, particularly in revenue generation and grant acquisition, regardless of size.

  • Respondents’ gender does not affect evaluations, while organizational position mainly influences assessments on financial matters.

Organization Clusters

  • Underperforming in management – Emerging (3 organizations, 9%)
    Low maturity, need to develop basic governance and financial management.

  • Digitally Mature Organizations (13 organizations, 39%)
    High digital skills, good KPI handling, need to strengthen fundraising and strategic financing.

  • Organizations with Limited Resources (8 organizations, 24%)
    Focus on grants, weaknesses in financial management, need for basic digital tools and KPIs.

  • High-Maturity Organizations (9 organizations, 27%)
    Excellent governance and financial management, strong points in legal compliance and budgeting, best practices accessible for mentoring.

Strategic Recommendations

  • Strengthen basic governance and financial management for emerging organizations.

  • Leverage digital skills to enhance fundraising in digitally mature organizations.

  • Invest in essential financial management tools and KPIs for organizations with limited resources.

  • Maintain excellence and exchange best practices for high-maturity organizations.

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3